10 things to do in Atlanta this weekend

This upcoming Monday is MLK Day, so many events this weekend honor the revered Atlanta-born civil rights hero. Dive into Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s teachings at exhibits across the city, contribute to his legacy by volunteering, or run for a cause in a charity race. Beyond that, catch the Atlanta Hawks heating up State Farm Arena all weekend, join a BeltLine doggie crawl, watch a sultry spin on Star Wars, and lots more!

MLK Days of Service through Hands on Atlanta

Support the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by participating in a service project this weekend. Hands On Atlanta, an organization that connects volunteers to nonprofit organizations, has over 100 opportunities to participate in a meaningful service project that will make a direct impact on the local community.

Location: Multiple locations; Date: Jan. 11 - 15; Time: Various hours; Admission: Free; Website: handsonatlanta.org

‘Truth on the Rocks’ and FedEx Free Admission Day

On January 12, the National Center for Civil and Human Rights will launch “Truth on the Rocks,” an event combining cocktails, music, dance and conversation as they unveil the latest Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. exhibits for this spring. Then, on January 13, the Center will have free admission for the day (thanks to FedEx), perfect for a family-friendly day of learning.

Location: National Center for Civil and Human Rights - 100 Ivan Allen Jr Blvd NW; Date: Friday, Jan. 12 (Truth on the Rocks); Saturday, Jan. 13 (Free Admission Day); Time: 7 - 10:30 p.m. (Truth on the Rocks): Admission: $20 in advance; $25 at the door (Truth on the Rocks); Free (Saturday); Website: civilandhumanrights.org

The Empire Strips Back

This weekend, head to a galaxy far, far away (okay, maybe just Pullman Yards) for a hilarious burlesque twist on Star Wars. The force is strong with this two-hour experience that promises lots of laughs in a unique blend of seduction and sci-fi.

Location: Pullman Yards/Porter Hall - 225 Rogers Street; Date: Select dates throughout January; Time: 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. (Friday), 4 p.m., 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. (Saturday), 4 p.m. (Sunday); Admission: Starting at $47; Website: theempirestripsback.com

Atlanta Hawks home games

The Atlanta Hawks are gearing up for an action-packed weekend slam dunk at State Farm Arena. On Friday night, they’ll be up against the Indiana Pacers at 7:30 p.m, with halftime guest and gospel singer Tasha Cobbs Leonard in honor of Faith and Family Night. Then, on Saturday, prepare for some court magic as the Hawks take on the Washington Wizards. And on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, they’ll face the San Antonio Spurs with a halftime performance by Killer Mike.

Location: State Farm Arena - 1 State Farm Drive; Date: Home games throughout January; Time: 7:30 p.m. (Friday and Saturday), 3:30 p.m. (Monday); Admission: Various prices; Website: nba.com/hawks

Tellus Turns 15!

In honor of Tellus Science Museum in Cartersville turning 15 years old, the museum will host a birthday party that offers fun for the whole family, from face painting and inflatables to lots of birthday games.

Location: Cartersville - 100 Tellus Drive; Date: Saturday, Jan. 13; Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Admission: Free for members; regular admission for non-members ($19 for adults, $17 for seniors, $15 for children 3-17); Website: tellusmuseum.org

West End Wayback Vintage Pop-Up Market

If one of your resolutions this year is to shop local more often, the West End Wayback Vintage Pop-Up Market is a great way to get started. The market will feature over 30 local vendors and small businesses that will be selling everything from handmade goods to retro finds.

Location: West End - 1310 White Street; Date: Saturday, Jan. 13; Time: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Admission: Free with reservation; Website: eventbrite.com

Children’s Museum of Atlanta celebrates MLK Day

For an educational and fun-filled day learning about one of the world’s most famous civil rights icons, head to the Children’s Museum of Atlanta this weekend. They’ll host interactive activities ranging from watercolor painting and bridge building to plenty of storytimes and much more.

Location: Children’s Museum of Atlanta - 275 Centennial Olympic Park NW; Date: Saturday, Jan. 13 - Monday, Jan. 15; Time: 9:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. (Saturday, Sunday); 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (Monday); Admission: See website; Website: childrensmuseumatlanta.org

Barks and Bites: Doggie Crawl on the BeltLine

Bored of your regular walk around the block with your pup? Shake it up and join the BeltLine doggie crawl, featuring dog-friendly restaurants on the Atlanta BeltLine. If you don’t have a dog, you can still join as a “companion” and be in the company of adorable canines.

Location: Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail; Date: Sunday, Jan. 14; Time: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Admission: $69 with dog; $39 for additional dog; $39 without dog; Website: bitelinesatlantafoodtours.com

Tamborrada Festival at Cooks and Soldiers

If you’re dreaming of the coast of Spain, head to Cooks and Soldiers for the Tamborrada Festival, which will transport you to the Basque city of San Sebastian in honor of their signature festival. Featured dishes will include albondigas, paella, pork cheek croquetas, and more, alongside music, wine and a lively atmosphere.

Location: Cooks and Soldiers - 69114th Street NW; Date: Sunday, Jan. 14; Time: 1 - 5 p.m.; Admission: $50 (general admission); $70 (VIP); Website: tamborrada2024.splashthat.com

MLK Drum Run

“Let freedom run” by participating in the Peachtree Road Race-qualifying MLK 5K Drum Run in Doraville in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King. The MLK 5K Drum Run will have a drumline lasting the entire 3.1-mile flat course, cheering you along the way. Participants can choose to register their organization, from school PTAs to churches, to receive proceeds from the event.

Location: First Baptist Church of Doraville - 5935 New Peachtree Road (across from Doraville MARTA Station); Date: Monday, Jan. 15; Time: Race starts at 9 a.m.; Admission: $35 after the New Year; $40 On Race Day; Website: mlkday5k.com